Blow to Human Trafficking: Criminal Network Dismantled at the Border Between Mexico and U

Authorities from Mexico and the United States announced the dismantling of a transnational organization dedicated to the illegal trafficking of people.

This network operated on the border between Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, and El Paso, Texas. Its operations were linked to a Mexican cartel, confirming the role of organized crime in the exploitation of migrants.

Their modus operandi consisted of transporting people from Mexico, Central America, and South America to the United States. During the journey, migrants were subjected to inhumane conditions, facing violence, exploitation, and dangerous routes.

Joint operation and arrests

The investigation, resulting from cooperation between security agencies of both countries, culminated in the arrest of six individuals in Mexico. These individuals coordinated the transportation of migrants from Mexican territory.

The U.S. Department of Justice reported that the criminal organization was responsible for illegally transporting thousands of people to Arizona and other U.S. regions.

Inhumane conditions and risk for migrants

Migrants transported by this criminal network suffered systematic abuses. Many of them were victims of:

• Exploitation by criminal groups.
• Kidnappings for extortion purposes.
• Extreme risks on dangerous routes.
• Inhumane conditions in hideouts controlled by traffickers.

Additionally, the new immigration policies of the U.S. administration have changed the landscape. Now, migrants with criminal records are being sent to detention centers in Guantanamo and Panama.

The Mexican government: real cooperation or delayed reaction?

Mexican authorities have reiterated their commitment to work with the United States to dismantle these human trafficking networks. However, the reality is that organized crime continues to operate with impunity in Mexican territory, with the complicity of many state and municipal governments.

Stricter immigration policies in the U.S.

Since the start of his second administration in January 2025, the President of the United States has reinforced immigration policies. Among the most recent measures, the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has been authorized to make arrests in:

• Churches, in specific cases of criminality.
• Schools, when there is evidence of child exploitation.
• Courtrooms, to capture criminals with pending warrants.

Will Mexico do what's necessary to curb the migration crisis?

The dismantling of this human trafficking network confirms that international cooperation is essential in the fight against crime. However, the problem remains latent.

Meanwhile, the U.S. tightens its policies, the Mexican government still fails to take firm measures against the cartels profiting from migration.

The key question is: will Mexico continue to allow organized crime to control the border?